Healthy Living

Powerful Tools for Caregivers

Caring for a family member or friend with a chronic condition can be physically, emotionally, and financially draining. This highly effective, evidence-based, self-care educational program for family caregivers builds the skills needed to take better care of themselves as they provide care for others. Caregiver participants learn to minimize the potentially negative impacts of caregiving while emphasizing self-care and empowerment. Class participants are given The Caregiver Helpbook to accompany the class and provide additional caregiver resources.
To Learn more about this program, watch this short overview video

Read Program Reviews

Upcoming 2025 classes held via Zoom:

• May 7 – Jun 11  |  Wednesdays  |  5:30 – 7pm
• Jun 30 – Aug 4  |  Mondays  |  1 – 2:30pm
• Sep 15 – Oct 20  |  Mondays  |  1 – 2:30pm
• Oct 15 – Nov 19  |  Wednesdays  |  5:30 – 7pm
• Nov 10 – Dec 15  |  Mondays  |  1 – 2:30pm
  • Register

Open to everyone, Y membership not required. These classes are available at NO CHARGE thanks to a generous sponsorship from Aging and Long Term Care of Eastern Washington (ALTCEW)

Powerful Tools for Caregivers one-time 90-minute Managing Stress Workshop

• Future workshop dates and times will be posted here when available.

In this introductory 90-minute session on how to manage caregiver stress, trained facilitators will help attendees explore stress management basics for themselves. This workshop is based upon the six-week Powerful Tools for Caregivers program, a self-care education program for family caregivers.

During this 90-minute workshop, attendees will learn how to:

• Identify signs and sources of stress
• Discover stress reducers
• Make an action plan
• Learn a relaxation technique

LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA is a FREE program tailored to fit the specific needs of cancer survivors who would like to improve their quality of life. Our certified Lifestyle Coaches and personal trainers have undergone specialized training in the elements of cancer, rehabilitative exercise and supportive cancer care. Sessions are offered in a small group environment with exercise protocols customized for each individual.

Read news release showing significant gains for cancer survivor participants.

The LIVESTRONG® Foundation

There can – and should be – life after cancer for the more than 32.6 million people around the world affected by cancer. Creating connections for needed support, leveraging funding and resources to spur innovation, and engaging communities and leaders to drive social change, the foundation known for the iconic yellow wristband puts its mission in motion by inspiring and empowering those affected by cancer. For more information, visit LIVESTRONG.org.

This might be for you if…

• You are a survivor 18 years or older
•  You have been medically cleared by your doctor to participate in a physical activity program. Our staff can provide support in obtaining an official medical clearance at the time of program entry but you are encouraged to discuss your interest in participation with your medical team before initiating a pre-registration interview.
• You have completed portions of treatment that could limit full participation, such as surgeries that require downtime for recovery, treatment protocols which require immune system protocols limiting contact with others, etc.
• You completed treatment years ago but did not previously get the help needed to reclaim your health either through spirit, mind or body, or all.
• You possess a strong personal desire and commitment to attend all classes. The commitment of the program requires twice-weekly meetings for 12 consecutive weeks.
• You give your permission for LIVESTRONG at the YMCA coaches to talk with your healthcare team, if needed
• You are physically able to participate in most of the activities
• You are willing to complete the required forms

Orientations:

Interested in participating in the LIVESTRONG program?

• Register for our upcoming LIVESTRONG at the YMCA Virtual Orientation, Wednesday, July 16, 2025 at 7pm

Orientations are an opportunity for cancer survivors to learn about LIVESTRONG at the YMCA. Interested (or curious) survivors are encouraged to attend an orientation to learn about the program and determine whether it is a good fit and the right time for them to participate.

Sessions:

Fall Session-

• September 8 – December 1, 2025
• Mon/Thu  |  6:30 – 8pm
• Central Y

Contact Mary Jo Kester, Community Health Programs Coordinator, with any questions.

Your journey to feeling your best starts with a supportive community that sees you as a whole person—not just a number on the scale. Balanced Living: A Sustainable Wellness Journey utilizes the YMCA Weight Loss Program curriculum to help you create lasting, healthy habits that fit your life.

• Lifestyle changes that promote energy, confidence, and connection to your values
• A focus on overall well-being: body, mind, and spirit
• Support from expert coaches and a welcoming community
• Personalized, sustainable strategies

We believe in progress over perfection and celebrating every step forward.  Join a program that helps you build habits for a healthier, happier life—without guilt or unrealistic expectations. You’re already enough—let’s build a wellness journey that reflects that.

What to Expect:

Each week, participants will:

• Track Progress: Record meals and movement and reflect weekly on the results of changes you are experimenting with.
• Explore New Topics: Learn about wellness areas like creating supportive environments, physical activity and movement, stress management and quality sleep, and positive psychology and motivation.
• Engage in Group Discussions: Share experiences, challenges, and tips with others on the same journey
• Set Realistic Goals: Develop achievable weekly objectives that keep you on track

Ages 18+ | In-person and Virtual Classes Available

Upcoming Sessions: March 5 – May 22, 2025

• Spokane Valley YMCA  | Wednesdays | 10:30 – 11:30am | Register
• Virtual Class on Zoom | Thursdays  | 6 – 7pm | Register

For more information, watch our orientation
Still have questions? We’re here to help! Contact Daryn Maughan, Community Health Programs Coordinator.

The YMCA Healthy Aging Community Cafés bring together those who are 55+ to engage in meaningful learning and sharing around topics relevant to individuals moving toward and through their golden years. The goal is to build spirit, mind, and body health such that all may thrive with greater purpose, connection, and well-being.

What is a Healthy Aging Community Café?
There will be a brief (15-20 min) topical introduction with ideas to frame the discussion and consider things in new ways. This will be followed by small group facilitated discussions where you will have the opportunity to share experiences and perspectives or simply listen to your peers as you feel comfortable. Following the small group discussions, we will come back together for an empowering full group wrap-up with relevant resource sharing and a look ahead to the next café.

All Community Cafés are held on Tuesdays from 1 – 2pm. They are FREE and hosted on Zoom. If you are new to Zoom and would like some assistance getting started, please note that on your registration form.

View Schedule & Registration Information

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with memory loss, join us at the Central Spokane YMCA for coffee, social activities, and connection.

At the Dementia Café, persons living with Alzheimer’s or other dementias and their loved ones or companion will enjoy socializing in a relaxed setting. The focus will be on making connections. Friendships are created in an environment that is accepting and non-judgmental. Walk-ins are welcome but contacting Inland Northwest Alzheimer’s Association ahead is encouraged to ensure we share parking pass information.

Contact inlandnw@alz.org for more information.

2024 Cafés

• 3rd Friday of each month
• 2 – 3:30pm
• Central YMCA, 930 N Monroe, Spokane, WA 99201